12.09.22

Durbin Announces Fall 2022 Recipient Of The Ed Greelegs Scholarship Program, Nancy Pulido

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced Nancy Pulido, a senior at the George Washington University from Waukegan, Illinois, as the fall 2022 recipient of the Ed Greelegs Scholarship Program. This scholarship, open to students and recent graduates from Illinois or those studying in Illinois, is an opportunity for the students to receive financial assistance while interning in Senator Durbin’s office. The program was created in honor of Durbin’s former Chief of Staff who passed away in March 2017 due to complications with Parkinson’s disease. 

“Ed knew everybody in Washington by name and everybody knew Ed. From Teddy Kennedy to the elevator operator, and the men and women who cleaned our office and polished the floor.  Even as parts of his memory were failing, his passion for politics never changed.  Ed is at peace now, but his influence remains with the lives he touched,” said Durbin.  “I’m excited to continue this scholarship program in Ed’s name and honor, to carry on his love of politics to the next generation by making the incredible experience of a Washington, D.C. internship possible for any Illinois student interested, no matter their background.  Nancy is a talented, inspiring, smart young woman and her future in politics is very bright.”

A resident of Waukegan, Nancy is majoring in political communication at the George Washington University.  On campus, she is a Cisneros Scholar, a member of the Dean’s Council for Multicultural Recruitment, and a research assistant with the School of Public Health investigating how stress affects Latin youth.  Through the Reach Higher initiative, Nancy has had the opportunity to help guide low-income, first-generation high school students through the college application process.  Back home, Nancy is a Midwest Young Artists Conservatory alumna and a Schuler Scholar.

“I never imagined myself having the opportunity to work on Capitol Hill,” Nancy said. “Being able to walk through these historic halls has made me realize what I am capable of.  I have learned so much from the amazing and talented staff, they have truly helped set this experience apart. The skills I have gained here will help me in pursuing my future career and giving back to my community.  I have been so grateful to be given the opportunity to work in this office and support Senator Durbin.” 

In order to be eligible for the Ed Greelegs Scholarship Program, students must be a resident of Illinois or be enrolled in an accredited college or university in Illinois; must demonstrate financial need; must not be receiving outside financial aid for their internship; and must have demonstrated an interest in public service and the legislative process.

Ed Greelegs started working for Senator Richard J. Durbin in 1990 and served as his chief of staff in the House of Representatives and Senate for a combined 17 years.  Ed was a beloved member of the Capitol Hill community, and made our country better with his caring approach and dedication to public service. 

Senator Durbin paid tribute to Ed shortly after his passing in March 2017. Video of his floor speech is available here. 

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